#Bde Maka Ska

[chaddavisphotography]

Clouds break up following severe thunderstorms in Minneapolis on August 26, 2024.

[twincitiesseen]

Mystic.

[oakand-photography]

Sunset over Bde Maka Ska, summertime

[hclib]

The Changing Moods of Bde Maka Ska

The Changing Moods of Lake Calhoun I love thy waters edge at morn It is so cool, I feel reborn As draw I breaths deep, full, and free And baptize soul with thoughts of thee. At noon-tide, thou art shining fair The sunbeams caught in glistening lair I joy with thee and dance at will For thou art winsome, coy and still. Then fleecy clouds come into view And waft me on to visions new; But while I feast enchanted here There speeds an [illegible] cloudlet near. The wave beneath begin to frown More darkness gathers; then to crown The day's bewitching hour with glee The lake puts on a cap of majestry. The lightning's flash, the thunder's roar

The author of this poem from our Minneapolis and Hennepin County Vertical Subject Files is lost to time. The poem probably dates from the early 1900s, but it seems its author never finished it. If you would like to explore more of the many moods of Bde Maka Ska (Lake Calhoun at the time this poem was written) to find your own poetic inspiration, there are hundreds of photos of the lake in the Hennepin County Library Digital Collections.

[sohannabarberaesque]

And in essentially the same shade as Snagglepuss, Lyla, Betty Makaska even!

(N. B. That last one, Betty Makaska--essentially an original creation on my own end, a sometime secondary girlfriend of Snagglepuss; the name is a play on "Bde Maka Ska," the original Ojibwe name of Lake Calhoun in Minneapolis, so restored in 2019.)

Pretty in pink🩷

[trivialbob]

Today it's sunny and warm here. I got going early on a bike ride, to beat the oncoming hot weather. For this ride I used my single-speed Surly Cross Check. This bike is decked out as a commuter machine, with fenders, rear rack, pannier bag and a center kickstand. Sheila gave it to me for Christmas about ten years ago.

I love the simplicity of a single-speed, but as I get older I start to think about getting gears added. I'm really interested in trying an internally geared hub.

Above in the video is Minnehaha Falls, flowing stronger than usual. On my route map below, the falls are in the lower right corner, a little over halfway of this 18 mile loop. There's a seafood restaurant at the park there too. Sometimes Sheila and I stop there for a beer if we're having a lackadaisical ride.

The top length on the map is the Minneapolis Greenway, a bike trail running along a former railway trench through the city. I rode the Greenway from Bde Maka Ska (pronounced bu-DAY muh-KOSS-ka, the new name of the former Lake Calhoun) to the Mississippi River.

The right side is West River Road. The bottom length is Minnehaha Parkway. To the left are lakes. This route is entirely on paved bike paths, except for a little construction detour off the Greenway this month.

After the ride I got out my bike mechanic stand. I cleaned and lubricated the drivetrains of the Surly and my e-bike. If the weather cools off a little this evening I think I'll take Sulley over to Lake Harriet (where the red marker is on the map) so he can swim a little.

[chaddavisphotography]

Above part of the 51 mile Grand Rounds Scenic Byway in Minneapolis.

[cinemaocd]

This is the reason you know that confederate monuments were put up in the early 20th century after most veterans of the civil war were dead. There is no way they could have named a lake in Minneapolis after the architect of the Confederacy, John C. Calhoun in the state that brought you the First Minnesota Volunteer Infantry....

It’s become a commonly shared anecdote on the internet that Minnesota displays a captured Confederate battle flag belonging to Virginia in their state Capitol and periodically get to smugly deny Virginia’s request for it back. I think what’s less well know is the story of how they got it:

On July 2nd, 1863, on the battlefield in Gettysburg a gap opened up in the Union lines and 1,200 Confederate troops poured through. The only troops close enough to plug the gap were the 262 men of 1st Minnesota Volunteer Infantry. They charged into certain death and held the line until reinforcements arrived, at 6-1 odds, suffering the highest casualty rate of any regiment in any battle in US history, before or since. Only 47 men survived without injuries, most of them would die the next day repelling Picket’s Charge and capturing Virginia’s Battle Flag. To quote a battlefield historian, “The First Minnesota rushed through the storm of bullets coming from the direct fire of two brigades, into the midst and centre of this overwhelming force, with nothing but death to look for, and no hope or chance; for any other success than to gain the brief time needed to save that battlefield. And not a man wavered.”

And to quote the Great Souled Man, and to acknowledge that the best things that could be said about the 1st Minnesota have already been said and that this war is not over, “It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us,that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion, that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain, that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”

[twincitiesseen]

Bde Maka Ska on a fall afternoon.

[oakand-photography]

Branch over the frozen lake, a vibrant background

[centralkvetchmonolith]

OH OKAY DAMB OKAY even more reasons to call it Bde Maka Ska...may his name be blotted out

[sohannabarberaesque]

So much for Snagglepuss and Lyla:

I myself have imagined Snag going for another girlfriend of sorts in the leonine arena who pretty much accepts as a given the fact of his being epicene: Videlicet, Betty Makaska, who could be said to be more "cool" looking than Lyla was.

(The name, know, being inspired by Bde Maka Ska, the former Ojibwe name for Lake Calhoun in Minneapolis, so reinstated in 2019. The name translates as "water surrounded by white hills.")

[sohannabarberaesque]

BETTY MAKASKA, a somewhat close friend of Snagglepuss (and original character of mine in a Hanna-Barberian vein, know), following some relaxation in a hot spring pool: I wonder why coffee tastes so good when you're out naked in a hot spring pool such as this ...

[tragicmammal]

Carpocalypse! Bde Maka Ska Under Siege!

💀 The lakes have turned red 🩸, and the Carpocalypse is here! 🐟 Humans are bait, seafood spots are HQs, and nobody’s safe! ⚠️🐠

[elsie--young]

Top Attractions in Minneapolis: My Must-See List!

When I first planned my trip to Minneapolis, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’d heard about the cold winters and the Mall of America, but I soon discovered there’s so much more to this vibrant city. Minneapolis is a city full of surprises, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and unique attractions. If you’re planning a visit, here’s my guide to the top attractions in Minneapolis that you simply can’t miss.

Problem: Deciding Where to Go in Minneapolis

Whenever I travel to a new city, the hardest part is always deciding where to go and what to see. Minneapolis was no different. With so many places to choose from, it can feel overwhelming. I didn’t want to waste my time on average spots; I wanted to experience the best this city has to offer.

Agitation: FOMO on Iconic Experiences

I’ve been that traveler who missed out on iconic experiences because I didn’t know where to go. I didn’t want that to happen again. The fear of missing out is real, especially in a city as rich in culture and history as Minneapolis. I wanted to make sure I hit all the top spots and really got to know what makes Minneapolis unique.

Solution: My Top Picks for Attractions in Minneapolis

Here are the top attractions in Minneapolis that I discovered, each offering a unique experience that captures the city’s spirit:

1. The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

One of my first stops was the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. It’s one of the largest urban sculpture gardens in the country, and I could see why it’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike. I spent hours wandering around the garden, admiring over 40 sculptures, including the iconic “Spoonbridge and Cherry.” It's free to enter, and with over 11 acres to explore, it's easy to spend a whole afternoon here. Plus, the garden is open year-round, so even if you’re visiting in the winter, you can enjoy this artistic haven.

2. Walker Art Center

Right next to the Sculpture Garden is the Walker Art Center, a must-visit for any art lover. I’m not usually a big museum person, but the contemporary art exhibits here were fascinating. The center also offers performing arts, film screenings, and a range of other events. General admission is $15, but they have free Thursday nights and the first Saturday of each month, which is a great deal if you’re on a budget like me.

3. Minnehaha Regional Park

Next, I headed to Minnehaha Regional Park, home to the beautiful Minnehaha Falls. This 53-foot waterfall is a sight to behold, especially in the spring and summer months when the water is flowing. I hiked along the trails, taking in the stunning natural scenery. The park is free to enter, making it an excellent option for a budget-friendly day out. There are also bike rentals available, and I saw plenty of families enjoying picnics in the green spaces.

4. The Chain of Lakes

If you’re looking for outdoor activities, the Chain of Lakes is the place to be. This series of five interconnected lakes—Lake Harriet, Lake Calhoun (Bde Maka Ska), Lake of the Isles, Cedar Lake, and Brownie Lake—offers miles of biking and walking paths, kayaking, and even swimming. I rented a paddleboard at Lake Harriet, which was an amazing way to spend a sunny afternoon. Each lake has its own charm, and I loved the feeling of tranquility while being just minutes away from downtown Minneapolis.

5. The Mill City Museum

To get a sense of the city’s history, I visited the Mill City Museum. Located on the historic Mississippi Riverfront, this museum is built into the ruins of what was once the world’s largest flour mill. The interactive exhibits gave me a deep dive into Minneapolis’s past as a booming mill town. The museum also offers great views of the Stone Arch Bridge, another must-see landmark in the area.

Conclusion: Discover the Best of Minneapolis

Minneapolis is full of surprises. From the art-filled streets to the serene lakes, there’s something here for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of the outdoors, love exploring museums, or just want to enjoy some local culture, you’ll find plenty to do. Make sure to add these top attractions in Minneapolis to your itinerary. You won't be disappointed!

[grapesodadarkchocolate]

September 18, 2023

“Story is a vessel for carrying meaning. Meaning inhabits story the way a morning mist envelops a pine forest- everything present, but nowhere tangible. Detach meaning from story and both die.”  – Daniel Taylor

Dearest Richard,

Mist is rising as a racing scull skims across the water stirring up the sentry seagulls poised as guards on the railing of the wooden dock as I round Bde Maka Ska. A vision of a moment. One to be embraced on this gleaming Monday in Minnesota. Fall is creeping in slowly. I can feel it. I can see it. I can hear it. Bittersweetness is its name. Each autumn creates a hesitant acceptance of this predictable and can’t hold back kind of tug and pull—always. I can count on it. 

I was just thinking more about your box. The one with the artifacts of your story in hard copy. Those sepia photos. The telegrams and letters that criss crossed the country. Your flight training book and purple heart with your name penned on the back in black ink. Your passport and the postcard photo of you and two other airmen walking the streets of San Antonio in the scorching heat of summer. The card that was addressed specifically to mom. It was so hot that you wrote that it made you feel “like biting someone.” 

I am curious about the back story with you on that phrase. There is a dear photo of you where it looks like you are pretending to bite mom and she is loving your antics. You two might have been around thirteen and eight respectively. Just a guess. No dates on your photo collection so I have to do more sleuthing. Guessing as I look a bit closer. Creating speculated assumptions, enabling me to be more attuned to the specifics. 

Those box items were what helped me to move forward with what more I was to learn about you and what you wanted shared. The gift you offered me as my external world was yanking my chain asking me to come clean. Something was coming undone. It began simply as a 3:40 AM phone wake up call just after the New Year in 2014. An alert, the matriarch had collapsed, emergency heart surgery was the pre-dawn message. Everything that had been held under wraps for decades became unglued. A simple dam bust and all that had been held back gushed down the fast flowing waters. Family in-law dysfunction was becoming untethered. Truth was nipping at my heels and finding me in my dreams. 

There is a lot more to that story, but in this context I will be brief, expressing what I wish to say is that I was drowning and your story pulled me out of the water and brought me on to shore. It allowed me to dry off while catching my breath. Wrapping a warm towel around me, giving me a chance to regain my strength, opening me up to so much more that was simply waiting to be found.

Love you and your sense of humor. Mom loved it too.

Will write more later, 

Your Niece